The SUV market has seen its share of hits and misses over the years. While many models soared in popularity, some from top-selling brands stumbled, failing to meet expectations in sales, performance, or reliability. Here’s a look at 15 such SUVs that didn’t quite hit the mark.

1. Pontiac Aztek

The Pontiac Aztek is often cited as a prime example of design missteps in the automotive industry. Introduced with the hope of attracting younger buyers, its unconventional appearance led to widespread criticism. Over its five-year production run, only 119,692 units were sold, falling significantly short of GM’s expectations.

2. Mazda Navajo

Mazda’s attempt to enter the SUV market with the Navajo in the early ’90s didn’t go as planned. With limited configuration options and Mazda’s inexperience in marketing SUVs, the Navajo struggled to find its footing. Fewer than 45,000 units were sold over its three-year production span, marking it as one of the shortest-lived SUV models of that era.

3. Subaru Tribeca

The Subaru Tribeca was the brand’s attempt at a larger family SUV. However, its awkward design and mediocre performance led to lackluster sales. The underpowered engine and less-than-stellar fuel efficiency didn’t help its case, leading to its eventual discontinuation.

4. Jeep Compass (2023 Model)

The Jeep Compass has had a rocky reputation regarding reliability. The 2023 model received a predicted reliability rating of just 2 out of 5 from Consumer Reports, based on the brand’s history and previous models’ performance. This low score indicates potential issues for prospective buyers.

5. Nissan Rogue

Despite being one of Nissan’s top-selling models, the Rogue has faced criticisms for underwhelming power and lack of agility on the road. These performance issues have left some drivers wanting more from this compact SUV.

6. Cadillac XT4

General Motors discontinued the Cadillac XT4 after seven years to focus on electric vehicle production. While the XT4 certainly touted premium features, its departure underscores the brand’s shift toward electrification, possibly indicating that it didn’t meet all expectations during its run.

7. Volkswagen ID.4

Volkswagen’s first all-electric SUV, the ID.4, aimed to boost the brand’s presence in the U.S. market. However, it has underperformed, with production issues further denting sales. Despite significant investments, the ID.4 hasn’t met the ambitious goals set by Volkswagen.

8. Range Rover Evoque Hybrid (2020 Model)

The 2020 hybrid model of the Range Rover Evoque has seen a significant decline in popularity. Owners reported frequent breakdowns and long delays for replacement parts, with vehicles averaging 21 days off the road for repairs. Some even laid up for over ten months, leading to its reputation as Britain’s least favorite car.

9. Ford Explorer (2023 Model)

The Ford Explorer, one of America’s most famous models, has faced challenges in its current generation. The 2023 model received a predicted reliability rating of just 1 out of 5, indicating significant concerns for potential buyers.

10. Toyota Land Cruiser (2022 Model)

In 2022, Toyota sold only 48 Land Cruiser SUVs in the United States, making it the worst-selling vehicle in the country for that year. These sales were from the remaining vehicles after the model was discontinued in 2021, highlighting its decline in popularity. When the model came back in 2024, sales skyrocketed to more than 29,000 units.

11. Dodge Journey (2022 Model)

The Dodge Journey saw only 194 units sold in 2022. These sales were from the remaining stock after the model was discontinued in 2020, reflecting its diminished demand.

12. Volkswagen Taos

The Volkswagen Taos has faced reliability issues, receiving the lowest possible predicted reliability score of 1 out of 5 from Consumer Reports. Owners have reported major engine problems, faulty electrical components, and defective transmissions, leading to roadside strandings and other mechanical failures.

13. Jeep (Various Models, 2025)

In 2025, several Jeep models have been rated poorly for reliability. Consumer Reports rates most Jeep models at 21/100 for unreliability, with recent recalls for power loss.

14. Kia (Various Models, 2025)

Kia has faced significant recalls in 2025, particularly for EV models and petrol cars’ fire hazards. These issues have raised concerns among consumers regarding the brand’s reliability.

15. Land Rover Defender (2025 Model)

The Land Rover Defender has already been deemed unreliable in 2025, with numerous recalls and issues reported by owners. This has affected the model’s reputation and sales.

While these SUVs come from reputable brands, they serve as reminders that not every model meets expectations. Whether due to design flaws, tone-deaf pricing, performance issues, or reliability concerns, these vehicles highlight that not every model launched by popular brands hits a bullseye.